Sphokazi Sharon Sigwebela

I am a skilled researcher with a strong academic and professional background in socio-economic development. I have experience working as a research assistant at the Durban Chamber of Commerce, conducting economic research, and presenting my findings to senior management. In my role as a research assistant at the Durban Chamber of Commerce, I was responsible for collecting and analyzing economic data from a variety of sources, including government statistics, media reports, and surveys. I used this data to generate economic reports for senior management and presented my findings in an easy-to-understand manner. I also contributed to developing new research methods and techniques, which improved the accuracy and efficiency of our research process.
I also have experience as a graduate researcher at the eThekwini Municipality, where I worked on several economic projects. I conducted economic research on several topics, including local economic development, job creation, and infrastructure development. My experience at the eThekwini Municipality also allowed me to work with a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and community groups. I learned how to communicate complex economic concepts to a diverse audience and gained valuable insight into the challenges facing our local economy. This experience has given me a unique perspective on the intersection of economics and public policy and has shaped my approach to economic research.
Additionally, I have experience as an economic history tutor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, which has allowed me to develop my skills in teaching and communication. As a tutor at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, I worked with students from a variety of backgrounds and educational levels. I tailored my teaching methods to meet the needs of each student and was able to help them understand complex economic concepts. I also developed my ability to explain complex economic ideas clearly and concisely. This experience has enhanced my communication skills and given me a greater understanding of the needs of students.
Overall, my experiences have given me a well-rounded perspective on organizational development. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications necessary to be a successful researcher. I am eager to apply my knowledge and skills to your organization and look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your success.
 

Work Experience
Research Assistant – Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industries NPC - Durban
December 2021-2023 -Contract Ended
• Conducted economic research and analysis on the Durban area, including identifying trends and opportunities for growth. 
• Presented research findings to senior management and provided recommendations for economic policy changes. 
• Developed statistical models to analyse and forecast economic trends, using tools such as PowerBi and Excel. 
• Managed databases of economic data and conducted regular audits to ensure accuracy and completeness. 
• Compiled complex economic information to a wide range of stakeholders. 
• Interpreted and presented economic data to senior management. 
• Demonstrated excellent research and analytical skills, including the ability to identify and analyse complex economic issues. 
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team, collaborating with colleagues to achieve shared goals. 
• Possess a strong understanding of economic theory and its application to real-world scenarios.

Graduate Researcher- eThekwini Municipality - Durban
September 2019-August 2021 -Contract Ended
• Conducting research on issues related to economic growth, including investment, productivity, innovation, and trade. 
• Cultivating relationships with various advocacies, policy, and research organizations working on Economic growth, development, and other areas. 
• Contributing to the development of business information and opportunity packages, maintaining reference and resource materials for clients. 
• Conducting research and providing recommendations on community economic development opportunities. 
• Assisting with the provision of inputs into newly implemented economic development projects. 
• Assisting with exploratory data analysis and data validation. 
• Tracking relevant developments in policy across South Africa and helping the team identify opportunities for engagement. 
• Assisting in the drafting and preparation of materials for policy outreach work, including presentations, evidence summaries, website, and social media. 
• Researching and benchmarking options against best practice delivery models. 
• Developing and maintaining databases of information relevant to standard reports and research. 
• Assisting in identifying sectoral opportunities for economic development for both private and public sectors. 
• Providing spatial planning, growth, and market analysis, regional investment priorities analysis. 
• Prepare progress reports on the project.

Economic History Tutor- University of KwaZulu Natal - Durban
February 2019-November 2021-Contract Ended
• Reviewed class assignments discussed the content, and assisted students with academic problems. 
• Marked and captured the student's assignments. 
• Provided a variety of services from study skills, note-taking strategies, test preparation, and grasping new concepts. 
• Developed training or teaching materials to help the students and encourage students to build up their academic confidence by giving them positive feedback and helpful suggestions. 
• Instructed students using visual activities and textbooks to improve writing, speaking, and reading skills. 
• Provided a supportive, nurturing learning environment to encourage student responsibility. 
• Constructed a classroom management system to keep classroom disruption to a minimum. 
• Tutored diverse groups of students to strengthen subject comprehension, boost confidence, and build important learning skills. 
• Leveraged technology to accelerate learning by providing students with easy-to-access information. 
• Prepared lesson plans to meet goals identified in students’ strengths and plans.
 

Education

Postgraduate Master of Social Science-Development Studies - University of KwaZulu Natal

2022- Completed 

Postgraduate      Honours of Economic History and Development - University of KwaZulu Natal

2019- completed

 Undergraduate Bachelor of Geography and Environmental Management, University of KwaZulu Natal

2018- completed

Additional Courses

• Certificate of origin Training- Durban Chamber of Commerce- 2 Days course
• Data Analyst Toolbox- Excel, Python, and PowerBi - Udemy- 2020